The Diesel Technology program offers the appeal of a wide variety of challenges as you learn to diagnose and solve diesel equipment problems on commercial vehicles. Our students begin by learning theory of operation for modern diesel-powered equipment. You will soon progress to basic maintenance procedures and minor repairs. Advanced training in this comprehensive program includes diagnostic skills for many vehicle systems including those that are electronically controlled.

You can look forward to working in a state-of-the-art lab and guidance from highly-qualified instructors who frequently attend industry training. Our courses keep lecture and classroom study to a minimum, emphasizing a "hands-on" approach to training. An active advisory committee made up of local employers assures that the program's curriculum remains current. An internship is included in our program plan.

Employment Outlook

Graduates of our diesel training programs have traditionally enjoyed high job placement success. Diesel Technology continues to be a vital link in the nation's economy and you can look forward to a rewarding career.

Articulation Agreements

Minnesota State University - Moorhead | BS - Operations Management

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Diesel Technology Diploma was last updated on 08/15/2013

Note: This is an unofficial document that should be used for planning purposes only. Course listings are provided only as a guideline and may be changed.

Course Sequence Example Plan - Two Year

Fall Semester - First Year

Course #

Course Title

Credits

HLTH1130

AHA CPR and First Aid Certification

This course includes instruction of adult, child, and infant for rescue breathing, airway obstruction, and one and two man Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and standard first aid. Topics covered are: obstructed airway, rescue breathing, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, injuries (soft and hard tissue), bleeding, emergencies, splinting, and sudden illness. Students will be instructed to use breathing devices, specifically the pocket mask and the bag-valve mask. This course is certified by the American Heart Association. (1 Cr - 1 lect, 0 lab)

1.00

DESL1101

Shop Safety, Tools & Equipment

This course is designed to introduce, perfect, and evaluate basic safety and shop skills necessary for successful completion of the Diesel Technology program. The course consists of instruction and shop performance exercises in safety, hand and machine tool operation, use and maintenance, tool identification and other basic shop skills. This course complies with personal and environmental safety practices associated with clothing, eye protection, hand tools, power equipment, and proper ventilation. The handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and materials in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

DESL1102

Introduction to the Diesel Engine

This course covers the basic theory and operation of the diesel engine and each of its major systems. Maintenance and repair of medium duty diesel engines are introduced. This course is taken in the same semester as DESL 1103. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 2 lect, 0 lab)

2.00

DESL1103

Applied Diesel Engines Lab

This course requires students to safely disassemble a diesel training engine. The students clean up, label, measure, evaluate, and properly reassemble all components. Adjustments are made to the engine's fuel system. The project engine must be correctly assembled and run properly at the end of the course. A workbook is completed which tracks progress through the project. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

3.00

DESL1104

Introduction to Electrical Systems

This course covers electrical theory, circuit analysis, use of special tools and equipment, and basic electrical circuit troubleshooting. It also covers circuit wire diagrams and construction of circuits, diagnostics, and repair of the charging systems. Electric starting system and other electrical systems on commercial vehicles are covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 2 lect, 0 lab)

2.00

DESL1105

Applied Electrical Systems Lab

This course covers application of electrical circuit analysis, the use of special tools and equipment, and basic electrical system troubleshooting. Construction and diagnosis repair of the charging systems and electrical starting system on commercial vehicles and farm equipment are also included. Topics include basic system, system diagnosis, component repair, and troubleshooting of lights and electrical accessories. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisite: DESL 1104. (3 Cr - 0 lect, 3 lab)

3.00

DESL1106

Clutch and Manual Transmission I

This course introduces students to the basic welding processes commonly used in the Automotive and Diesel Technology area where certified welds are not required. Basic theory and application of the welding processes along with flat position welding using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas metal arc welding (GMAW) processes are included. Safety practices and equipment required for the safe use of plasma cutting equipment are introduced. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

3.00

DESL1208

Air & Hydraulic Brakes

This course covers air and hydraulic brake assemblies used on trucks and trailers. Evaluating and repairing brake systems to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) #120 requirements are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

MATH1020

Technical Math I

This course covers basic mathematics and elements of algebra that will prepare students for success in their specific technical areas. Students will develop their problem solving skills and master mathematical concepts used in specific technical applications. Students will receive a grade for this course. It will not meet MnTC Mathematics and Logical Reasoning requirements for graduation. Prerequisite: A score of 56 or above on the Accuplacer Arithmetic test, a score of 51 or above on the Elementary Algebra test or Math 0540. (2 Cr - 2 lect, 0 lab)

2.00

Total 20.00

Spring Semester - First Year

Course #

Course Title

Credits

DESL1107

Industry Related Welding

This course introduces students to the basic welding processes commonly used in the Automotive and Diesel Technology area where certified welds are not required. Basic theory and application of the welding processes along with flat position welding using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas metal arc welding (GMAW) processes are included. Safety practices and equipment required for the safe use of plasma cutting equipment are introduced. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course is an introduction to electronic controls for diesel engines. Basic theory of operation, adjustments and diagnostics are covered. Detroit Diesel Electronic Controls (DDEC) system and Detroit Diesel Diagnostic Link (DDDL) software are introduced. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

3.00

DESL1212

Introduction to Hydraulics

This course covers basic hydraulic systems and the operation of the components that make up the different types of systems. Basic hydraulic system nomenclature is introduced. Troubleshooting, repair, and adjustment of various components are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

DESL1213

Diesel Fuel Systems I

This course covers the basic theory and operation of common diesel engine fuel transfer systems. Fuel characteristics, grades, filtration, and safe handling are included. The student performs maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of fuel systems found on medium duty diesel engines. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

DESL1117

Caterpillar Engines and Fuel Systems

This course covers maintenance procedures, repairs, and basic diagnostics for Caterpillar (CAT) models 3406, C-10/12, and 3406E diesel engines. Service and maintenance information in CAT literature and Service Informational System (SIS) software are covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section I of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisites: DESL 1101. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

3.00

GSCM1510

Workplace Human Relations

This course examines interpersonal relationship skills in the work environment. Students evaluate individual strengths and weaknesses and assess and learn transferable skills. This course emphasizes employment-enhancing skills that include understanding and improving relationships and communication with co-workers, supervisors, subordinates, and customers. This survey course introduces concepts and methods for improvement of interpersonal relations. (2 Cr - 2 lect, 0 lab)

2.00

Total 17.00

Fall Semester - Second Year

Course #

Course Title

Credits

DESL2210

Diesel Project Lab

This course covers all aspects of heavy-duty diesel equipment. Included are diagnosis, customer communication, writing work orders, preparing a parts list, coordination outside work, repair procedures, and testing of the finished job. Finding the diesel project is the responsibility of the student. It can be chosen from a wide range of repair jobs and must relate to diesel equipment. Instructor must approve what projects qualify. The project must be 60 hours in length as determined by an industry flat rate manual. Two or more smaller projects may be selected if flat rate requirement is met. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (4 Cr - 0 lect, 4 lab)

4.00

DESL2115

Commercial Vehicle ABS Braking Systems

This course covers the major components of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) and electronic brake systems. How to manage these controls and systems, diagnose ABS faults, service valves and modulators and wheel sensors, and how these systems have to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) # 121 requirements are also included. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (1 Cr - 0 lect, 1 lab)

1.00

DESL2224

Diesel Information Systems

This course covers computerized information systems used in the truck repair business. These systems include work order, inventory, multimedia training and the World Wide Web. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

DESL2118

Commercial Vehicle Power Trains I

This course covers manual and manual/automatic transmission service on all twin countershaft transmission. Topics include Fuller/Eaton, Meritor/Rockwell, and computer controlled transmissions. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

DESL2119

Commercial Vehicle Steering & Suspension Systems

This course covers manual and power steering systems common on today's medium and heavy trucks. Steering axle alignment and repair are covered as well as tire wear analysis. The second part of the course introduces popular suspension systems found on commercial vehicles. Drive axle alignment, frames, spring and air ride suspension repair and adjustment are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisites: DESL 1101. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course introduces students to a process of developing self-awareness when considering career opportunities and identifying career-related goals. Students conduct a job search, prepare a job application, resume, cover letter, a follow-up correspondence. The course includes preparation for job interviews. (1 Cr - 1 lect, 0 lab)

1.00

Total 17.00

Spring Semester - Second Year

Course #

Course Title

Credits

DESL2221

Electronic Engine Controls II

This course covers theory, diagnosis, and repair of the electronic engine controls used on Cummins Diesel engines. Cummins Intel Software Index and Technology Exchange (INSITE), Caterpillar Service Information System (SIS), and International Master Diagnostic (MD) software familiarization are included in this course. Hydraulic Electronic Unit Injector (HEUI) fuel system used on both International and Caterpillar diesel engines are emphasized. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisites: DESL 1101. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

DESL2222

Automated Transmissions

This course covers the basic skills needed to understand operation, preventative maintenance (PM) nomenclature, and parts ordering for Allison transmissions. Lab work includes testing, troubleshooting, adjustments and major overhaul of Allison transmissions. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (4 Cr - 1 lect, 3 lab)

4.00

DESL2223

Cummins Engines & Fuel Systems

This course covers maintenance procedures, repairs, and basic diagnostics for Cummins models, NTC 855, M11, N14, and ISX engines. Intel Software Index and Technology Exchange (INSITE) software is used to communicate with these systems. Quick Serve Online software accesses service information. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

2.00

DESL2225

Commercial Vehicle Power Trains II

This course covers identification, preventative maintenance (PM), troubleshooting, and major overhaul of live front and rear drive axles assemblies. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

3.00

DESL2226

Diesel Technology Internship

This course is designed to provide the student a purposeful occupational experience in the diesel career field. A training plan is created for each student in conjunction with the training site. The advisor coordinates and monitors the progress of the internship. One credit of internships is equal to 48 hours of career-related employment. This internship consists of 192 hours. The student must arrange the internship with instructor approval. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (4 Cr - 0 lect, 0 lab, 4 other)

Diesel Technology Faculty & Advisors

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Program Notes Requirements for Program Admission: Tool and Safety Kit  different options available, price varies per supplier.

Students entering this program must meet the following minimum program entry requirements:Reading: An Accuplacer score of 52 is recommended.

Assessment Results and Prerequisites: Students admitted into Riverland Community College program may need to complete additional courses based on assessment results and course prerequisite requirements. Certain MATH and ENGL courses have additional prerequisites.

Required Core Courses (63 Credits)

Course ##

Name

Credits

Course Outline

DESL1101

Shop Safety, Tools & Equipment

This course is designed to introduce, perfect, and evaluate basic safety and shop skills necessary for successful completion of the Diesel Technology program. The course consists of instruction and shop performance exercises in safety, hand and machine tool operation, use and maintenance, tool identification and other basic shop skills. This course complies with personal and environmental safety practices associated with clothing, eye protection, hand tools, power equipment, and proper ventilation. The handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and materials in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers the basic theory and operation of the diesel engine and each of its major systems. Maintenance and repair of medium duty diesel engines are introduced. This course is taken in the same semester as DESL 1103. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course requires students to safely disassemble a diesel training engine. The students clean up, label, measure, evaluate, and properly reassemble all components. Adjustments are made to the engine's fuel system. The project engine must be correctly assembled and run properly at the end of the course. A workbook is completed which tracks progress through the project. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers electrical theory, circuit analysis, use of special tools and equipment, and basic electrical circuit troubleshooting. It also covers circuit wire diagrams and construction of circuits, diagnostics, and repair of the charging systems. Electric starting system and other electrical systems on commercial vehicles are covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 2 lect, 0 lab)

This course covers application of electrical circuit analysis, the use of special tools and equipment, and basic electrical system troubleshooting. Construction and diagnosis repair of the charging systems and electrical starting system on commercial vehicles and farm equipment are also included. Topics include basic system, system diagnosis, component repair, and troubleshooting of lights and electrical accessories. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisite: DESL 1104. (3 Cr - 0 lect, 3 lab)

This course introduces students to the basic welding processes commonly used in the Automotive and Diesel Technology area where certified welds are not required. Basic theory and application of the welding processes along with flat position welding using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas metal arc welding (GMAW) processes are included. Safety practices and equipment required for the safe use of plasma cutting equipment are introduced. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course introduces students to the basic welding processes commonly used in the Automotive and Diesel Technology area where certified welds are not required. Basic theory and application of the welding processes along with flat position welding using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas metal arc welding (GMAW) processes are included. Safety practices and equipment required for the safe use of plasma cutting equipment are introduced. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers maintenance procedures, repairs, and basic diagnostics for Caterpillar (CAT) models 3406, C-10/12, and 3406E diesel engines. Service and maintenance information in CAT literature and Service Informational System (SIS) software are covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth in Section I of the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisites: DESL 1101. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers air and hydraulic brake assemblies used on trucks and trailers. Evaluating and repairing brake systems to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) #120 requirements are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course is an introduction to electronic controls for diesel engines. Basic theory of operation, adjustments and diagnostics are covered. Detroit Diesel Electronic Controls (DDEC) system and Detroit Diesel Diagnostic Link (DDDL) software are introduced. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers basic hydraulic systems and the operation of the components that make up the different types of systems. Basic hydraulic system nomenclature is introduced. Troubleshooting, repair, and adjustment of various components are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers the major components of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) and electronic brake systems. How to manage these controls and systems, diagnose ABS faults, service valves and modulators and wheel sensors, and how these systems have to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) # 121 requirements are also included. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (1 Cr - 0 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers manual and manual/automatic transmission service on all twin countershaft transmission. Topics include Fuller/Eaton, Meritor/Rockwell, and computer controlled transmissions. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers manual and power steering systems common on today's medium and heavy trucks. Steering axle alignment and repair are covered as well as tire wear analysis. The second part of the course introduces popular suspension systems found on commercial vehicles. Drive axle alignment, frames, spring and air ride suspension repair and adjustment are also covered. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisites: DESL 1101. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course covers all aspects of heavy-duty diesel equipment. Included are diagnosis, customer communication, writing work orders, preparing a parts list, coordination outside work, repair procedures, and testing of the finished job. Finding the diesel project is the responsibility of the student. It can be chosen from a wide range of repair jobs and must relate to diesel equipment. Instructor must approve what projects qualify. The project must be 60 hours in length as determined by an industry flat rate manual. Two or more smaller projects may be selected if flat rate requirement is met. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (4 Cr - 0 lect, 4 lab)

This course covers theory, diagnosis, and repair of the electronic engine controls used on Cummins Diesel engines. Cummins Intel Software Index and Technology Exchange (INSITE), Caterpillar Service Information System (SIS), and International Master Diagnostic (MD) software familiarization are included in this course. Hydraulic Electronic Unit Injector (HEUI) fuel system used on both International and Caterpillar diesel engines are emphasized. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. Prerequisites: DESL 1101. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers the basic skills needed to understand operation, preventative maintenance (PM) nomenclature, and parts ordering for Allison transmissions. Lab work includes testing, troubleshooting, adjustments and major overhaul of Allison transmissions. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (4 Cr - 1 lect, 3 lab)

This course covers computerized information systems used in the truck repair business. These systems include work order, inventory, multimedia training and the World Wide Web. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (2 Cr - 1 lect, 1 lab)

This course covers identification, preventative maintenance (PM), troubleshooting, and major overhaul of live front and rear drive axles assemblies. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (3 Cr - 1 lect, 2 lab)

This course is designed to provide the student a purposeful occupational experience in the diesel career field. A training plan is created for each student in conjunction with the training site. The advisor coordinates and monitors the progress of the internship. One credit of internships is equal to 48 hours of career-related employment. This internship consists of 192 hours. The student must arrange the internship with instructor approval. This course, along with other program courses, satisfies the task requirements set forth by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) accreditation. (4 Cr - 0 lect, 0 lab, 4 other)

This course includes instruction of adult, child, and infant for rescue breathing, airway obstruction, and one and two man Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and standard first aid. Topics covered are: obstructed airway, rescue breathing, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, injuries (soft and hard tissue), bleeding, emergencies, splinting, and sudden illness. Students will be instructed to use breathing devices, specifically the pocket mask and the bag-valve mask. This course is certified by the American Heart Association. (1 Cr - 1 lect, 0 lab)
Course Outline HLTH1130

This course covers basic mathematics and elements of algebra that will prepare students for success in their specific technical areas. Students will develop their problem solving skills and master mathematical concepts used in specific technical applications. Students will receive a grade for this course. It will not meet MnTC Mathematics and Logical Reasoning requirements for graduation. Prerequisite: A score of 56 or above on the Accuplacer Arithmetic test, a score of 51 or above on the Elementary Algebra test or Math 0540. (2 Cr - 2 lect, 0 lab)
Course Outline MATH1020

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